1 C1 idiomatic informal
To keep someone happy and cooperative by encouraging them or flattering them, often to get something done.
"The manager jollied his team along with praise and promises of an early finish."
separable
jolly along
C1 informal separable transitive
To keep someone cheerful and motivated through encouragement, flattery, or gentle persuasion.
In plain English
To make someone feel happy and keep them going by saying nice or encouraging things.
What does "jolly along" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic informal
To make progress seem more pleasant or to hurry someone along in a cheerful manner.
"She jollied the children along on the long walk with stories and games."
separable
Usage tip
Primarily British English. Suggests a somewhat paternalistic or managing attitude — the speaker is keeping someone in good spirits, sometimes to their own advantage. Not commonly used by younger speakers; considered a slightly old-fashioned or middle-class British expression.
Words that pair with "jolly along"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
client colleague child reluctant difficult workers
How to conjugate "jolly along"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
jolly along
I/you/we/they
3rd person
jollies along
he/she/it
Past simple
jollied along
yesterday
Past participle
jollied along
have + pp
-ing form
jollying along
continuous
Hear "jolly along" in the wild
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